Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is expected to make several changes to his starting lineup when the Blues travel to Anfield to face Liverpool in the Carabao Cup fourth round, with £47 million signing Marco Palestra tipped to start.

According to a report by Football London on Tuesday, 27 October, 2026, Alonso could rest Pedro Neto and Moises Caicedo after their recent performances as Chelsea seek to respond to their 2-0 Premier League defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.

Cole Palmer will miss the midweek encounter after being sent off against Tottenham. The England international is expected to return for Chelsea’s Premier League meeting with Manchester United at the weekend.

Mike Penders is expected to retain his place in goal despite being criticised for his role in the defeat to Spurs. With Emiliano Martinez still sidelined through injury, the young goalkeeper is likely to continue as Alonso’s first-choice option.

Wesley Fofana could return to the starting lineup in place of Josh Acheampong as the manager looks to rotate his defensive options. Fofana is expected to join Maxence Lacroix and Levi Colwill in a back three.

Palestra could feature at right wing-back, replacing Neto, who has been one of Chelsea’s standout performers this season. The £47 million summer signing from Atalanta would have an opportunity to impress if selected.

In midfield, Romeo Lavia could come in for Caicedo, while Valentin Barco is tipped to replace Jordan Henderson. Jorrel Hato is expected to continue at left wing-back if Pep Chavarria has not recovered from his injury.

Palmer’s absence could give Estevao Willian an opportunity to start in an attacking role. Morgan Rogers is expected to return to the left side of the attack, providing support behind the striker.

Danny Welbeck is also tipped to lead the line, with Joao Pedro unlikely to recover in time for the trip to Anfield.

Welbeck was unfortunate to miss out on a starting role against Tottenham and could now get his chance against Liverpool.

The predicted Chelsea lineup in a 3-4-2-1 formation is Penders; Fofana, Lacroix, Colwill; Palestra, Lavia, Barco, Hato; Estevao, Rogers; Welbeck.